Tips On Building A Rabbit House Protected From Predators And Disturbances

Rabbit housing may use a variety of buildings as
long as the rabbits are protected from
predators, disturbances, and extreme weather
conditions. The type of insulated and
fan-ventilated housing used for poultry is
suggested for large commercial rabbitries. It is
important to consider labor efficiency when
designing the hutch. A readymade hutch can be
purchased or one can be built. Hutches
constructed with wood frames, and wire mesh
sides, tops and floors are satisfactory.

For most breeds, ½ by 1-inch welded-steel
wire floor, and 1 x 2-inch wire sides and top are
suitable. Wire floors make it easier to keep the
hutch clean and reduce the potential for
disease. Exposed wood should be covered with
wire to prevent the rabbits from chewing the
wood. Avoid any rough spots or loose ends of
wire to prevent injury to the rabbit.
Floor-to-ceiling height should be at least 18
inches (giant breeds do better with a 24-inch
height), the minimum cage depth 30 inches, and
the width can vary from 30 to 48 inches.

Each hutch must be equipped with feeding and
watering equipment. Individual glazed-masonry
feeders and waterers, or metal self-feeders
which attach to the outside of the hutch, and
automatic waterers, as well as creep feeders for
the young bunnies, are suitable for any size
rabbitry. Nest boxes are needed for the doe at
the time of kindling. Good dimensions for a nest
box are 18 inches deep by 12 inches wide by 14
inches high. Wire boxes with disposable liners
are more sanitary than wood boxes.

Rabbits will not perform well if they are
crowded. They should have at least 1 square foot
of floor area for each pound of body weight. An
8- to 10-pound rabbit needs 7½ square
feet of floor area. A floor space of at least 10
square feet is desirable for a breeding doe with
a litter.

Females are also more sensitive if they are
pregnant. In caring for rabbits which are
nearing delivery, one must prepare a nest lined
with materials to keep the mother warm. The nest
can be made of a simple cardboard or litter box
which should be lined with hay or wood shavings.
In creating a nest, it is not recommended to use
newspapers or tissue because these materials do
not sufficiently hold warmth in them. Moderating
the temperature is important in keeping rabbits
because the more body heat these animals use,
the higher their tendency of eating too much.

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rabbits the first time and avoid having to make
painful mistakes that beginner rabbit owner's
are prone too. Separate yourself from the
average rabbit owner who will end up harming
their rabbits without knowing it and you could
learn more tips about building a rabbit house
at: http://www.howtoraiserabbits.com

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